Jason Budd

        Have you ever made a promise?  I'm sure you have.  It may have been to do someone a favor, to never do something again, or maybe even something as simple as taking out the trash or cleaning your room.  Have you ever not fulfilled a promise?  I'm sure you've done that too.

        It's very easy to spew off promises.  Often, it's done in an attempt to rid oneself of discomfort.  In order to get this person to stop complaining to me, I'll promise to help.  My significant other is really getting on my case about me having done that; if I promise to never do it again, maybe he or she will lay off.  I really don't think that mom will let me go out on Friday night if I don't promise to take care of my chores.

        Really, the motivation for making our promises isn't important when it comes to being responsible and keeping our word.  We can try to reason that they knew we weren't being serious or that the circumstances have changed, but when we say we'll do something (whether we use the word "promise" or not), we are bound to do it.

        Imagine the consequences if God decided not to keep His promises.  Forgiveness of sins upon confession (1 John 1:9), trials we can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13), and while we're at it, eternal life (John 3:16) can all be thrown out the window.  What makes God so great is that He will always uphold His promises–to the righteous and the unrighteous.  As His children, our level of influence will greatly depend upon the integrity of our words.  Be sure to take care in both what you say, and how you follow it through.  A great deal depends upon it.